Human Strength Capabilities for the Operation of Parachute Ripcords and Riser Releases
Abstract
Military Specification MIL-P-6645H permits a maximum pull of 27 pounds to activate a parachute ripcord. A test was conducted to evaluate this force. Two hundred eleven physically fit male and female subjects made maximum voluntary exertions on five different parachute ripcord handles with the left hand, the right hand, and with both hands. The applied isometric forces were recorded. Considerable differences in the recorded forces were found to be attributable to sex and to one versus two hand pulls; lesser differences were caused by variations in ripcord handle types and locations. When both hands were used, almost all male subjects could exceed the permitted 27-pound pull. Significant numbers of female subjects using either one or both hands, and male subjects using only one hand could not exceed 27 pounds of pull. As a result, the authors recommend that the currently specified 27-pound limit not be increased as has been proposed, and that teaching the two-hand pull be continued. The same subjects also performed maximum voluntary exertions on two types of riser releases with the left and right hands. The type of riser release caused a significant difference in the force exerted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA138328
Entities
People
- Job W. Mcdaniel
- Nilss M. Aume
- Thomas Garver
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory